My career at George Fox University has been a memorable journey. The strides I have taken as a student, an athlete, a man and a member of this community have made my time worthwhile in Newberg. Without the help of the selfless, caring individuals at this university, I would not be the person I am today.

My first two years at the university were eye-opening. I quickly learned from professors Dirk Barram and David Liu how tough the academics were at George Fox. They taught me what it means to be a true student. They pushed me to achieve more than I imagined and encouraged me to be the student I was destined to be. Balancing my academics, football, job, and personal life was extremely difficult, but no challenge is unachievable. The help that was offered from my coaches, professors, faculty members, teammates, and colleagues played a huge role in my success early on.

I began to understand how to properly manage my time and fully use the resources offered to me during my junior and senior years. The professors I found to be the most impactful were Courtney Anderegg, Kevin Jones, David Liu, Sarah Song-Southworth and Deborah Thomas. They saw the light in me as a student and person, which motivated me to become the best student I could be. This is one of the countless reasons why I love George Fox. This university is home to some of the most genuine, honest and benevolent human beings who stand strong on their faith.

George Fox has helped me create a stronger bond with God. Before I came to Fox, it was rare for me to attend church. My free time was limited because I was traveling for sports every weekend. There was a point in my life where God was nowhere to be found and my relationship with him was completely gone. Jamie Johnson reassured me that a relationship with the Lord is always present; it is just a matter of believing. Through his inspirational speeches and kind words, I reshaped my relationship with the Lord, and it is the strongest it has ever been.

With my involvement in football for nearly 17 years, the sport has become a huge part of who I am. I have learned valuable lessons, obtained critical skills, and created specific values. Coach Chris Casey and his staff have been nothing short of father figures to me. This program builds championship people – people who will impact communities across the area.

The coaching staff has taught us what it means to be a leader and a man. The life lessons we've been taught will allow us to be the best husbands, fathers, teammates, and men. My family is speechless and proud at the person I have become today, and a great amount of credit goes to coach Casey and his staff.